Spring is finally here, and we know many of you are seeking ways to lose weight before the heat of summer arrives.
Consider This Non-Impact Sport
Cardiovascular workouts can be difficult while suffering from lower body pain, back pain, or for those recovering from an injury. Higher impact exercising can cause discomfort in these cases, which doesn’t do much to motivate one to continue.
With its excellent cardio workout and recognition as a non-impact sport, it may be time for you to consider a dip in the pool.
Gentle On The Joints
Swimming is a fantastic way to get fit while burning off those pesky calories. It’s incredibly gentle on the joints, can help tone the entire body and best of all, it’s fun!
The site Nutristrategy.com has estimates from research date from the American College of Sports Medicine. These estimates are based on one hour of swimming, rather than the total distance an athlete covers.
- A 130-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 590 calories swimming fast, and 413 swimming slower.
- A 155-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 704 calories swimming fast, and 493 calories swimming slower.
- A 180-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 817 calories swimming fast, and 572 calories swimming slower.
- A 205-pound person swimming freestyle for one hour will burn 931 calories swimming fast, and 651 calories swimming slower.
All that said, swimming laps isn’t the be-all and end-all in the pool. Classes such as AquaFit – a type of aerobics class in water — are available at many of Ottawa’s recreational centres. In addition, some offer Aquabiking – riding a stationary bike under water, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, water polo.
Significant Healing Speed
Our patients who swim report nothing but pleasure in participating in this sport. One woman has recently used it in her recovery during a badly sprained ankle, which kept her sidelined for nearly four months. The water provided a gentle way to increase movement in the joints, and she found that her healing sped up significantly. Therapeutic benefits and fitness all in one? That’s good bang for your health and wellness buck!
So, if you’re looking for a new way to tone up, slim down and stay healthy while going easy on your body, give swimming a try. See you in the pool!